What port does SNMP use specifically for receiving traps?

Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) employs different ports for various functions. Port 162 is specifically designated for receiving traps, which are asynchronous messages sent from devices to management systems or servers. These traps inform the management server about certain events or changes in the networked devices, allowing for proactive monitoring and management.

In the context of SNMP operations, port 161 is generally used for receiving SNMP requests from management systems. Traps, on the other hand, are sent unsolicited, which is why they utilize a different port for their receipt. This distinction is important for network configurations, as it ensures that devices are properly set up to send their alerts and changes to the correct port on the management station. Understanding which ports are used for specific types of SNMP traffic can greatly enhance network management capabilities.